WHAT IS THE ACADEMY OF CULINARY ARTS CHEFS APPRENTICESHIP?

It is a three year vocational course designed to give the most promising young chefs the best possible training whilst enabling them to work in the finest establishments in the UK.  Throughout their training the apprentices are employed by either members of the Academy of Culinary Arts or recognised employers of the same standard whilst working towards NVQ Level 3 Professional Cookery, NVQ Level 3 Pastry and Confectionery as well as undertaking the Academy of Culinary Arts Diploma Exam at the end of the third year. 

The point of difference between an ACA Chefs Apprenticeship and a routine apprenticeship is the standard of employer and establishment at which the apprentice is employed during their training; as well as the ‘add-ons’ which form part of the curriculum.  In addition to the standard qualifications undertaken on the course apprentices also gain qualifications in other areas including food safety, hospitality skills and food and drink service – the ACA Chefs Apprenticeship is unique in that its syllabus is wide-ranging and adds value in all areas – not to mention the Academy of Culinary Arts Diploma.

The first ACA Chefs Apprenticeship – The Academy of Culinary Arts Specialised Chefs Course at Bournemouth & Poole College – has been running since 1989 and is a three year block release programme.  The second ACA Chefs Apprenticeship is a day release programme at the University of West London which has been running since 1994.

THE PHILOSOPHY

The ACA is widely recognised as the premier chefs’ association in the UK, is well respected by the industry and other professional bodies and most importantly, is synonymous with excellence in training.  Excellence is sought in all aspects of the ACA Chefs Apprenticeship: the apprentices, the lecturers, the colleges, the employers and the course content. 

The ACA Chefs Apprenticeship is rigorous and challenging; it equips its apprentices with a wide range of in-depth skills underpinned by sound theoretical knowledge; and it aims to provide employers with the best trained chef apprentices in the industry.  The curriculum is cutting edge, being built on traditional foundations whilst taking in modern developments and draws from an internationally renowned body of knowledge.

An equally important part of the apprenticeship is the pastoral care given to the apprentices during the three years.  Each college undertaking to run the ACA Chefs Apprenticeship must appoint a tutor whose role it is to fully support the apprentices throughout their training in both their work and personal lives.

CREATING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW

This programme of study aims to develop the individual in the practical, theoretical and intellectual aspects of food and the hospitality business in order to lay the foundations for a career as an active practitioner and ambassador of the Academy of Culinary Arts.  It aims to turn out young chefs whose objective is to gain sustainable employment and to act as role models for the next generation.  Such a role carries with it responsibilities which are recognised across the global industry, as such individuals possess the talent required to work in this international profession.

PAST GRADUATES

You can download a full list of graduates here